Cycling - Porte extends deal with Team Sky

Team Sky have announced that Richie Porte has extended his contract with the team.

The Tasmanian enjoyed his best-ever start to a season in 2013, carrying strong early-season form into the spring and capturing a landmark victory at Paris-Nice in March.

Two further second places at the Criterium International and Vuelta al Pais Vasco both included stage victories and signalled a rider growing in confidence and embracing the role of a team leader.

Porte joined Team Sky at the start of the 2012 season and played an integral part in the campaign that included sustained stage race success and victory at the Tour de France with Sir Bradley Wiggins.

The 28-year-old possesses the ability to climb and time trial, making him a prime candidate for leadership in future Grand Tours according to the team.

Porte said: “I'm really happy at Team Sky and this was always the best scenario for me. I've had a great two years with the team and I feel at home here.

“There was interest from other teams but Team Sky are the best in the world, with the best staff and riders. Guys like Tim Kerrison have helped me become a better rider and I know I can improve further working with the performance team we have here.

“With this new contract comes an added responsibility, and while I'm more than happy to help guys like Chris Froome and Sir Bradley Wiggins in the future, I'd love to lead the squad in a Grand Tour next season.”

Team Sky team principal Sir Dave Brailsford said: “Richie has been a key part this team’s stage race success since he arrived here and this new contract is a statement of intent for both him and the team.

“Every time he has taken on a leadership role he has excelled. We saw at Paris-Nice exactly what Richie is capable of and there is no doubt that there is a lot more to come from him.

“If he maintains his current trajectory there is no reason why he can’t go in to a Grand Tour and challenge for victory.”